Truck-mounted cranes play a crucial role in various industries, from construction to logistics. These powerful machines are designed to lift and move heavy loads with precision and efficiency. However, to ensure their reliable performance and longevity, proper maintenance is essential. The maintenance of truck-mounted cranes is not a one-time task but an ongoing process that requires attention throughout the year. In particular, during the winter months when temperatures are low, comprehensive maintenance is even more important to maintain the performance and extend the service life of these valuable pieces of equipment. Today, let’s delve into the knowledge about the maintenance of truck-mounted crane structural components and explore the key points that need to be considered.
Inspection and care of structural components’ appearance
Structural components are the backbone and skeleton support of truck-mounted cranes. They provide the necessary strength and stability to handle heavy loads and perform various lifting operations. In addition to the routine maintenance tasks of dust removal and cleaning on the surface, careful observation during wiping is essential. When cleaning the structural components, it is important to look for any signs of deformation, wear, or cracks in the weld beads.
Deformation of structural components can occur due to overloading, improper handling, or exposure to extreme forces. Even slight deformations can affect the alignment and stability of the crane, potentially leading to inaccurate lifting and increased safety risks. Worn components may indicate excessive friction or improper lubrication, which can reduce the efficiency and lifespan of the crane. Cracks in the weld beads are particularly concerning as they can weaken the structural integrity and pose a significant threat to the safety of the operation.
For example, if a weld bead on a boom section develops a crack, it could lead to a catastrophic failure during lifting. The sudden breakage of a structural component can cause the load to drop, endangering the lives of workers and damaging property. Therefore, regular inspection and early detection of these issues are crucial. If any problems are found during the inspection, they should be reported for repair immediately. Timely repair can minimize the coefficient of dangerous accidents and ensure the safe operation of the truck-mounted crane.
Maintenance of hinge shafts for structural components’ connection
The connection of structural components in a truck-mounted crane depends on several key hinge shafts. These hinge shafts play a vital role in allowing the various parts of the crane to move and articulate smoothly. To ensure the proper functioning of the crane, it is necessary to frequently check their lubrication degree. Adequate lubrication is essential to maintain the activity between various components and prevent jamming.
If the hinge shafts are not properly lubricated, they can become rusted over time. Rust can cause the shafts to bind with the structural components, leading to restricted movement and potential damage. This can have serious consequences for the operation of the crane. For instance, if a hinge shaft becomes stuck due to rust, it can prevent the boom from extending or retracting properly, affecting the crane’s lifting capacity and range.
To prevent such issues, hinge shafts should be lubricated regularly. This can be done by injecting lubricating oil at a certain pressure until the lubricating oil overflows from between the two connectors. The pressure helps to ensure that the lubricant reaches all the necessary areas and provides a sufficient film to reduce friction. After adding oil, each joint point should perform several complete actions. This helps to distribute the lubricant evenly and ensure that it reaches all the moving parts. Then, a little more oil can be added to ensure that there is an adequate supply for an extended period.
For example, when lubricating the hinge shaft of a boom section, the operator can slowly extend and retract the boom a few times to work the lubricant into the joint. This not only helps to prevent rust and jamming but also reduces wear and extends the lifespan of the hinge shaft and the connected components.
Lubrication of surfaces with relative movement between structural components
The surfaces that generate relative movement between various structural components of a truck-mounted crane also require lubrication. Examples include between movable legs and between each telescopic boom body. These areas are subject to friction during the operation of the crane. Without proper lubrication, the friction resistance will increase, leading to several negative consequences.
Increased friction can result in abnormal noise, trembling, and shaking. The noise can be distracting and may indicate potential problems with the crane’s operation. Trembling and shaking can affect the stability of the crane and make it more difficult to control during lifting operations. Moreover, the increased friction can damage the surface of structural components over time. The abrasion caused by friction can reduce the thickness and strength of the components, potentially leading to premature failure.
Regular inspection of the wear of the sliders between the extension booms is also important. The sliders help to guide the movement of the telescopic booms and ensure smooth extension and retraction. If the sliders are worn or excessively loose, it can cause the extension booms to not be able to stay on the same straight line. This can affect the accuracy and stability of the lifting operation.
Before applying new lubricating oil, the original old grease must be scraped off with a rubber knife. This is because old grease can become contaminated and lose its lubricating properties. Removing it ensures that the new lubricant can provide optimal performance. Then, a layer of grease must be applied to the entire outer surface of the extension boom with a brush. This helps to ensure that all the moving parts are properly lubricated and protected against friction.
For example, when lubricating the telescopic booms, the operator can carefully apply a layer of high-quality grease to the surfaces where the booms slide against each other. This not only reduces friction but also helps to prevent corrosion and wear.
Perhaps many vehicle owners have overlooked the maintenance of truck-mounted crane structural components. However, this is a crucial aspect of ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the crane. The maintenance of any vehicle, including truck-mounted cranes, needs to be comprehensive. Only by achieving comprehensive maintenance can the vehicle maintain good performance and be used for a longer time.
Neglecting the maintenance of structural components can lead to a variety of problems. Over time, without proper care, structural components can become damaged, leading to decreased lifting capacity, increased safety risks, and costly repairs. Regular inspection and maintenance can help detect issues early on and prevent them from escalating into major problems.
For instance, if the structural components are not cleaned regularly, dust and debris can accumulate, potentially causing abrasion and corrosion. If hinge shafts are not lubricated, they can become stuck, affecting the crane’s functionality. And if the surfaces with relative movement are not lubricated, the increased friction can lead to premature wear and failure of the components.
In conclusion, the maintenance of truck-mounted crane structural components is of utmost importance. By paying attention to the appearance inspection, hinge shaft lubrication, and surface lubrication of structural components, vehicle owners can ensure the safe and efficient operation of their cranes. Regular maintenance not only extends the service life of the crane but also reduces the risk of accidents and costly repairs. So, make sure to include the maintenance of structural components in your regular maintenance routine and keep your truck-mounted crane in top condition.
